US20170260906A1 - Clevis link for toggle mechanism of ram air turbine actuator - Google Patents
Clevis link for toggle mechanism of ram air turbine actuator Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170260906A1 US20170260906A1 US15/068,151 US201615068151A US2017260906A1 US 20170260906 A1 US20170260906 A1 US 20170260906A1 US 201615068151 A US201615068151 A US 201615068151A US 2017260906 A1 US2017260906 A1 US 2017260906A1
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- clevis
- pivot holes
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- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 title claims abstract description 58
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 21
- 238000005553 drilling Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000003754 machining Methods 0.000 description 3
- 241000237509 Patinopecten sp. Species 0.000 description 2
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 235000020637 scallop Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 241000699662 Cricetomys gambianus Species 0.000 description 1
- 241000700159 Rattus Species 0.000 description 1
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008030 elimination Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003379 elimination reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000036316 preload Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003381 stabilizer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000006467 substitution reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02C—GAS-TURBINE PLANTS; AIR INTAKES FOR JET-PROPULSION PLANTS; CONTROLLING FUEL SUPPLY IN AIR-BREATHING JET-PROPULSION PLANTS
- F02C7/00—Features, components parts, details or accessories, not provided for in, or of interest apart form groups F02C1/00 - F02C6/00; Air intakes for jet-propulsion plants
- F02C7/32—Arrangement, mounting, or driving, of auxiliaries
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B64—AIRCRAFT; AVIATION; COSMONAUTICS
- B64D—EQUIPMENT FOR FITTING IN OR TO AIRCRAFT; FLIGHT SUITS; PARACHUTES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF POWER PLANTS OR PROPULSION TRANSMISSIONS IN AIRCRAFT
- B64D41/00—Power installations for auxiliary purposes
- B64D41/007—Ram air turbines
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16C—SHAFTS; FLEXIBLE SHAFTS; ELEMENTS OR CRANKSHAFT MECHANISMS; ROTARY BODIES OTHER THAN GEARING ELEMENTS; BEARINGS
- F16C7/00—Connecting-rods or like links pivoted at both ends; Construction of connecting-rod heads
- F16C7/02—Constructions of connecting-rods with constant length
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
- F05D—INDEXING SCHEME FOR ASPECTS RELATING TO NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, GAS-TURBINES OR JET-PROPULSION PLANTS
- F05D2220/00—Application
- F05D2220/30—Application in turbines
- F05D2220/34—Application in turbines in ram-air turbines ("RATS")
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
- F05D—INDEXING SCHEME FOR ASPECTS RELATING TO NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, GAS-TURBINES OR JET-PROPULSION PLANTS
- F05D2230/00—Manufacture
- F05D2230/60—Assembly methods
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
- F05D—INDEXING SCHEME FOR ASPECTS RELATING TO NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES OR ENGINES, GAS-TURBINES OR JET-PROPULSION PLANTS
- F05D2260/00—Function
- F05D2260/50—Kinematic linkage, i.e. transmission of position
Definitions
- the subject matter disclosed herein generally relates to ram air turbine actuators, and more specifically to devises for use in a toggle mechanism of a ram air turbine (RAT) actuator.
- RAT ram air turbine
- RATs are commonly used on modern aircraft to provide a secondary and/or emergency power source in the event the primary power source is insufficient or fails.
- a typical RAT includes a turbine that remains internal to the aircraft until needed. When additional power is required, a door in the aircraft's fuselage will open and the actuator will deploy the RAT's turbine into the freestream air. The turbine is rotated by the freestream air and the rotational torque from the turbine is transferred through a drivetrain to be converted into electrical power by a generator.
- a RAT may also be used to drive a hydraulic pump.
- a toggle mechanism internal to a RAT actuator may act as an over center mechanism to initiate the actuation process.
- solenoids pull on a cross rod, which turns over a clevis to move the toggle mechanism past its over center position. This motion then allows the actuator to actuate and deploy the RAT.
- the cross rod and clevis experience loading from the solenoids and also back loading from internal components of the actuator. Accordingly, clevis and cross rod capable of withstanding the loading, while being easy to install and maintain would provide both cost and reliability benefits.
- a clevis for use in a toggle mechanism of a ram air turbine actuator.
- the clevis comprises a first side and a second side parallel to the first side.
- the second side rigidly connected to the first side via at least one brace perpendicular to the first side and the second side.
- the clevis also comprises a first set of parallel pivot holes. A first hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes being located in the second side.
- the clevis further comprises a second set of parallel pivot holes. A first hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes being located in the second side.
- the clevis yet further comprises a set of parallel through holes.
- a first hole of the set of parallel through holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the set of parallel through holes being located in the second side.
- the clevis also further comprises a helicoil blind hole. The helicoil blind hole being located in the first side and extending into the at least one brace.
- further embodiments of the clevis may include that the second hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes is a blind hole, wherein the blind hole opens towards the first side.
- a toggle mechanism of a ram air turbine actuator comprising a clevis.
- the clevis includes a first side and a second side parallel to the first side. The second side rigidly connected to the first side via at least one brace perpendicular to the first side and the second side.
- the clevis also includes a first set of parallel pivot holes. A first hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes being located in the second side.
- the clevis further includes a second set of parallel pivot holes. A first hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes being located in the second side.
- the clevis yet further includes a set of parallel through holes. A first hole of the set of parallel through holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the set of parallel through holes being located in the second side.
- the clevis also further includes a helicoil blind hole. The helicoil blind hole being located in the first side and extending into the at least one brace.
- the toggle mechanism also comprises a cross rod operably connected to the clevis and located in the set of parallel through holes.
- the toggle mechanism further comprises a cap screw located in the helicoil blind hole. The cap screw securing the cross rod to the clevis.
- toggle mechanism may include that the second hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes is a blind hole, wherein the blind hole opens towards the first side.
- toggle mechanism may include that the cross rod has a first section, a second section, and a midsection between the first section and the second section, the midsection includes a flange having a through hole.
- further embodiments of the toggle mechanism may include that the first section has a first diameter, the second section has a second diameter, and the midsection has a third diameter, the third diameter being larger than at least one of the first diameter and the second diameter.
- toggle mechanism may include that the midsection includes a clearance notch.
- toggle mechanism may include a lock piston operably connected to the clevis through a link, the link being operably connected to the first set of parallel pivot holes via a pivot pin, wherein the pivot pin is secured in the first set of parallel pivot holes by the flange.
- toggle mechanism may include a bracket operably connected to the clevis at the second set of parallel pivot holes via a biasing mechanism.
- toggle mechanism may include that the cap screw secures the cross rod to the clevis via the through hole.
- a method of manufacturing a toggle mechanism of a ram air turbine actuator comprises forming a first side of a clevis; forming a second side of a clevis; and rigidly connecting the second side to the first side via at least one brace perpendicular to the first side and the second side.
- the first side being parallel to the second side.
- the method also comprises forming a first set of parallel pivot holes. A first hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes being located in the second side.
- the method further comprises forming a second set of parallel pivot holes.
- a first hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes being located in the second side.
- the method yet further comprises forming a set of parallel through holes. The first hole of the set of parallel through holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the set of parallel through holes being located in the second side.
- the method also comprises drilling a helicoil blind hole. The helicoil blind hole being located in the first side and extending into the at least one brace.
- the method further comprises inserting a cross rod into the set of parallel through holes within the clevis and installing a cap screw in the helicoil blind hole. The cap screw securing the cross rod to the clevis.
- further embodiments of the method may include that the second hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes is a blind hole, wherein the blind hole opens towards the first side.
- further embodiments of the method may include that the cross rod has a first section, a second section, and a midsection between the first section and the second section, the midsection includes a flange having a through hole.
- further embodiments of the method may include that the first section has a first diameter, the second section has a second diameter, and the midsection has a third diameter, the third diameter being larger than at least one of the first diameter and the second diameter.
- further embodiments of the method may include that the midsection includes a clearance notch.
- further embodiments of the method may include operably connecting a lock piston to the clevis through a link, the link being operably connected to the first set of parallel pivot holes via a pivot pin, wherein the pivot pin is secured in the first set of parallel pivot holes by the flange.
- further embodiments of the method may include operably connecting a bracket to the clevis at the second set of parallel pivot holes via a biasing mechanism.
- further embodiments of the method may include that the cap screw secures the cross rod to the clevis via the through hole.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aircraft that may incorporate embodiments of the present disclosure
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of ram air turbine (RAT) assembly that may incorporate embodiments of the present disclosure
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of an actuator for use in the RAT assembly of FIG. 2 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional top view of the actuator of FIG. 3 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a toggle mechanism for use in the actuator of FIG. 3 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of an alternate toggle mechanism capable of being using in the actuator of FIG. 3 ;
- FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of a cross rod for use in the toggle mechanism of FIG. 5 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of an alternate cross rod for use in the alternate toggle mechanism of FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional illustration of a cross rod and clevis assembly for use in the toggle mechanism of FIG. 5 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional illustration of an alternate cross rod and alternate clevis assembly for use in the toggle mechanism of FIG. 6 .
- FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an aircraft 2 that may incorporate embodiments of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of ram air turbine (RAT) assembly 40 that may incorporate embodiments of the present disclosure.
- Aircraft 2 includes a fuselage 4 extending from a nose portion 6 to a tail portion 8 through a body portion 10 .
- Body portion 10 houses an aircraft cabin 14 that includes a crew compartment 15 and a passenger compartment 16 .
- Body portion 10 supports a first wing 17 and a second wing 18 .
- First wing 17 extends from a first root portion 20 to a first tip portion 21 through a first airfoil portion 23 .
- First airfoil portion 23 includes a leading edge 25 and a trailing edge 26 .
- Second wing 18 extends from a second root portion (not shown) to a second tip portion 31 through a second airfoil portion 33 .
- Second airfoil portion 33 includes a leading edge 35 and a trailing edge 36 .
- Tail portion 8 includes a stabilizer 38 .
- Aircraft 2 includes a ram air turbine (RAT) assembly 40 mounted within fuselage 4 or nose portion 6 .
- RAT ram air turbine
- the RAT assembly 40 may include a turbine assembly 42 , a gearbox assembly 44 , a shaft assembly 48 , a generator 46 , and the actuator 50 .
- the turbine assembly 42 rotates, the rotational torque is transferred from the turbine assembly 42 , through the gearbox assembly 44 to a driveshaft (not shown) in the strut assembly 48 , and then to the generator 46 .
- the generator 46 may be an electrical generator, hydraulic pump, or both an electrical generator and a hydraulic pump.
- FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional side view of an actuator 50 for use in the RAT assembly 40 of FIG. 2 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 4 shows an enlarged cross-sectional top view of the actuator 50 of FIG. 3 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- the actuator 50 includes a toggle mechanism 100 , solenoids 60 and a rod end 52 .
- the toggle mechanism 100 may include a lock piston 110 , a link 120 , a clevis 200 , a cross rod 300 and a bracket 140 .
- the toggle mechanism 100 operates as an over center mechanism.
- the solenoids 60 pull on the cross rod 300 to move the toggle mechanism 100 past its over-center position.
- the link 120 shifts and subsequently allows the lock piston 110 to translate in direction X.
- the lock piston 110 had been originally preloaded to translate in direction X but was previously prevented from translating by the link 120 .
- the motion of the lock piston 110 activates the actuator 50 , and thus as the lock piston 110 completes its motion, the actuator 50 begins translating the rod end 52 in direction X.
- the motion of the rod end will deploy and/or retract the RAT (e.g. RAT assembly 40 as shown in FIG. 2 ).
- the force generated by the solenoids 60 imparts a large bending force on the cross rod 300 .
- the preload on the lock piston 110 also imparts a large bending force on the cross rod 300 .
- FIG. 5 shows a schematic illustration of a toggle mechanism 100 for use in the actuator 50 of FIG. 3 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 7 shows a schematic illustration of a cross rod 300 for use in the toggle mechanism 100 of FIG. 5 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- the toggle mechanism 100 includes a clevis 200 and a cross rod 300 operably connected to the clevis 200 .
- the cross rod 300 having a first section 310 , a second section 320 , and a midsection 330 between the first section 310 and the second section 320 .
- the first section 310 has a first diameter D 1
- the second section 320 has a second diameter D 2
- the midsection 330 has a third diameter D 3 .
- the midsection 330 includes a flange 340 .
- the flange 340 may be formed via machining the midsection 330 of the cross rod 300 .
- the flange 340 may rigidly connected to the midsection 330 .
- the flange 340 may be rigidly connected to the midsection by a weld at a juncture 370 .
- the flange 340 also includes a through hole 350 .
- the flange 340 and the through hole 350 may be formed in a variety of different manors including but not limited to molding, machining and drilling.
- the midsection 330 also includes a clearance notch 360 .
- the clearance notch 360 allows the cross rod 300 to avoid hitting the link 120 when lock piston 110 translates.
- the lock piston 110 may be operably connected to the clevis 200 via the link 120 .
- the lock piston 110 may be operably connected to the link 120 via a pin 182 .
- the clevis 200 includes a first side 200 a , a second side 200 b parallel to the first side 200 a , the second side 200 b rigidly connected to the first side 200 a via at least one brace (e.g. 200 c & 200 d of FIG. 10 ) perpendicular to the first side 200 a and the second side 200 b .
- the clevis 200 also includes a first set of parallel pivot holes 210 . A first hole 210 a of the first set of parallel pivot holes 210 being located in the first side 200 a and a second hole 210 b of the first set of parallel pivot holes 210 being located in the second side 200 b .
- the second hole 210 b may be a blind hole and the blind hole opens towards the first side 200 a .
- the clevis 200 also includes a second set of parallel pivot holes 220 .
- a first hole 220 a of the second set of parallel pivot holes 220 being located in the first side 200 a and a second hole 220 b of the second set of parallel pivot holes 220 being located in the second side 200 b .
- the clevis 200 also includes a set of parallel through holes 230 .
- a first hole 230 a of the set of parallel through holes 230 being located in the first side 200 a and a second hole 230 b of the set of parallel through holes 230 being located in the second side 200 b .
- the clevis 200 also includes a helicoil blind hole 240 .
- the helicoil blind 240 hole being located in the first side 200 a and extending into the brace 200 d (see FIG. 10 ).
- the first set of parallel pivot holes 210 , the second set of parallel pivot holes 220 , the set of parallel through holes 230 , and the helicoil blind hole 240 may be formed in a variety of different manors including but not limited to molding, machining and drilling.
- the toggle mechanism 100 may also include a bracket 140 operably connected to the clevis 200 at the second set of parallel pivot holes 220 via a biasing mechanism 130 .
- the biasing mechanism 130 may include a pin 186 .
- the biasing mechanism 130 may be a spring.
- the toggle mechanism 100 also includes a cap screw 160 located in the through hole 350 .
- the cap screw 160 secures the cross rod 300 to the set of parallel through holes 230 of the clevis 200 .
- the cap screw 160 secures the cross rod 300 to the clevis 200 via the helicoil blind hole 240 .
- the cap screw 160 prevents the cross rod 300 from rotating in the clevis 200 . If the cross rod 300 had bent due to heavy loads, and then rotated in the clevis 200 , the over center position may change for various cross rod 300 rotational positions. In order to prevent the cross rod from bending, various changes were incorporated into the cross rod 300 in FIG. 7 versus alternate cross-rod designs.
- FIG. 6 shows a schematic illustration of an alternate toggle mechanism 102 capable of being using in the actuator 50 of FIG. 3 .
- FIG. 8 shows a schematic illustration of an alternate cross rod 302 for use in the alternate toggle mechanism 102 of FIG. 6 .
- the diameter (D 1 , D 2 , and D 3 ) of cross rod 300 is greater than the diameter D 4 of the alternate cross rod 302 . Having a larger diameter allows cross rod 300 to withstand larger bending forces.
- the third diameter D 3 may be larger than at least one of the first diameter D 1 and the second diameter D 2 . Having a larger diameter in the middle allows the cross rod 300 to be stronger where it is needed most.
- the alternate cross rod 302 includes a scallop 390 near the center of the alternate cross rod 302 , which results in a smaller diameter D 5 . The smaller diameter D 5 creates a weak point near the center of the alternate cross rod 302 , where the bending forces are often elevated.
- the flange 340 allows the pivot pin 184 connecting the link 120 to the clevis 200 to remain in the first set of parallel pivot holes 210 of the clevis 200 .
- the second hole 210 b may be a blind hole and the blind hole opens towards the first side 200 a .
- the pivot pin 184 may be pressed into the blind second hole 210 b of the first set of parallel pivot holes 210 and then the flange 340 will cover up the pivot pin 184 on the first hole 210 a .
- the alternate toggle mechanism 102 required a separate piece, called a retainer 188 , to keep the pivot pin 184 in its place.
- FIG. 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional illustration of a cross rod 300 and clevis 200 assembly for use in the toggle mechanism 100 of FIG. 5 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional illustration of an alternate cross rod 302 and alternate clevis 202 assembly for use in the alternate toggle mechanism 102 of FIG. 6 .
- the cross rod 300 is secured to the clevis 200 via the cap screw 160 , such that the flange 340 is abutting the clevis 200 , as shown.
- the cap screw 160 is located in the through hole 350 of the flange 340 and screws into the clevis 200 at the helicoil blind hole 240 .
- the thickness of the alternate cross rod 302 is reduced at the scallop 390 , in order to accommodate a set screw 190 , which reduces movement in direction Y.
- the cap screw 160 , the flange 340 and the helicoil blind hole 240 in FIG. 9 eliminates the need to reduce the thickness of the cross rod 200 in the midsection 330 , unlike the alternate cross rod 302 .
- a thicker diameter at the midsection 330 helps make the cross rod 300 stronger and more resistant to bending and/or breaking than the alternate cross rod 302 .
- the flange 340 of the cross rod 300 eliminates the need for the retainer 188 , which was required by the alternate cross rod 302 and alternate clevis 202 assembly of FIG. 10 .
- the elimination of the retainer 188 and the set screw 190 reduces part count and simplifies assembly.
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Abstract
Description
- The subject matter disclosed herein generally relates to ram air turbine actuators, and more specifically to devises for use in a toggle mechanism of a ram air turbine (RAT) actuator.
- RATs are commonly used on modern aircraft to provide a secondary and/or emergency power source in the event the primary power source is insufficient or fails. A typical RAT includes a turbine that remains internal to the aircraft until needed. When additional power is required, a door in the aircraft's fuselage will open and the actuator will deploy the RAT's turbine into the freestream air. The turbine is rotated by the freestream air and the rotational torque from the turbine is transferred through a drivetrain to be converted into electrical power by a generator. A RAT may also be used to drive a hydraulic pump.
- A toggle mechanism internal to a RAT actuator may act as an over center mechanism to initiate the actuation process. After receiving an electrical command, solenoids pull on a cross rod, which turns over a clevis to move the toggle mechanism past its over center position. This motion then allows the actuator to actuate and deploy the RAT. The cross rod and clevis experience loading from the solenoids and also back loading from internal components of the actuator. Accordingly, clevis and cross rod capable of withstanding the loading, while being easy to install and maintain would provide both cost and reliability benefits.
- According to one embodiment, a clevis for use in a toggle mechanism of a ram air turbine actuator is provided. The clevis comprises a first side and a second side parallel to the first side. The second side rigidly connected to the first side via at least one brace perpendicular to the first side and the second side. The clevis also comprises a first set of parallel pivot holes. A first hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes being located in the second side. The clevis further comprises a second set of parallel pivot holes. A first hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes being located in the second side. The clevis yet further comprises a set of parallel through holes. A first hole of the set of parallel through holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the set of parallel through holes being located in the second side. The clevis also further comprises a helicoil blind hole. The helicoil blind hole being located in the first side and extending into the at least one brace.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the clevis may include that the second hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes is a blind hole, wherein the blind hole opens towards the first side.
- According to another embodiment, a toggle mechanism of a ram air turbine actuator is presented. The toggle mechanism comprising a clevis. The clevis includes a first side and a second side parallel to the first side. The second side rigidly connected to the first side via at least one brace perpendicular to the first side and the second side. The clevis also includes a first set of parallel pivot holes. A first hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes being located in the second side. The clevis further includes a second set of parallel pivot holes. A first hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes being located in the second side. The clevis yet further includes a set of parallel through holes. A first hole of the set of parallel through holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the set of parallel through holes being located in the second side. The clevis also further includes a helicoil blind hole. The helicoil blind hole being located in the first side and extending into the at least one brace. The toggle mechanism also comprises a cross rod operably connected to the clevis and located in the set of parallel through holes. The toggle mechanism further comprises a cap screw located in the helicoil blind hole. The cap screw securing the cross rod to the clevis.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the toggle mechanism may include that the second hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes is a blind hole, wherein the blind hole opens towards the first side.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the toggle mechanism may include that the cross rod has a first section, a second section, and a midsection between the first section and the second section, the midsection includes a flange having a through hole.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the toggle mechanism may include that the first section has a first diameter, the second section has a second diameter, and the midsection has a third diameter, the third diameter being larger than at least one of the first diameter and the second diameter.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the toggle mechanism may include that the midsection includes a clearance notch.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the toggle mechanism may include a lock piston operably connected to the clevis through a link, the link being operably connected to the first set of parallel pivot holes via a pivot pin, wherein the pivot pin is secured in the first set of parallel pivot holes by the flange.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the toggle mechanism may include a bracket operably connected to the clevis at the second set of parallel pivot holes via a biasing mechanism.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the toggle mechanism may include that the cap screw secures the cross rod to the clevis via the through hole.
- In another embodiment a method of manufacturing a toggle mechanism of a ram air turbine actuator is presented. The method comprises forming a first side of a clevis; forming a second side of a clevis; and rigidly connecting the second side to the first side via at least one brace perpendicular to the first side and the second side. The first side being parallel to the second side. The method also comprises forming a first set of parallel pivot holes. A first hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes being located in the second side. The method further comprises forming a second set of parallel pivot holes. A first hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the second set of parallel pivot holes being located in the second side. The method yet further comprises forming a set of parallel through holes. The first hole of the set of parallel through holes being located in the first side and a second hole of the set of parallel through holes being located in the second side. The method also comprises drilling a helicoil blind hole. The helicoil blind hole being located in the first side and extending into the at least one brace. The method further comprises inserting a cross rod into the set of parallel through holes within the clevis and installing a cap screw in the helicoil blind hole. The cap screw securing the cross rod to the clevis.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include that the second hole of the first set of parallel pivot holes is a blind hole, wherein the blind hole opens towards the first side.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include that the cross rod has a first section, a second section, and a midsection between the first section and the second section, the midsection includes a flange having a through hole.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include that the first section has a first diameter, the second section has a second diameter, and the midsection has a third diameter, the third diameter being larger than at least one of the first diameter and the second diameter.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include that the midsection includes a clearance notch.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include operably connecting a lock piston to the clevis through a link, the link being operably connected to the first set of parallel pivot holes via a pivot pin, wherein the pivot pin is secured in the first set of parallel pivot holes by the flange.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include operably connecting a bracket to the clevis at the second set of parallel pivot holes via a biasing mechanism.
- In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the method may include that the cap screw secures the cross rod to the clevis via the through hole.
- The subject matter is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other features, and advantages of the present disclosure are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aircraft that may incorporate embodiments of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of ram air turbine (RAT) assembly that may incorporate embodiments of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of an actuator for use in the RAT assembly ofFIG. 2 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional top view of the actuator ofFIG. 3 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a toggle mechanism for use in the actuator ofFIG. 3 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of an alternate toggle mechanism capable of being using in the actuator ofFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of a cross rod for use in the toggle mechanism ofFIG. 5 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of an alternate cross rod for use in the alternate toggle mechanism ofFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional illustration of a cross rod and clevis assembly for use in the toggle mechanism ofFIG. 5 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and -
FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional illustration of an alternate cross rod and alternate clevis assembly for use in the toggle mechanism ofFIG. 6 . - The detailed description explains embodiments of the present disclosure, together with advantages and features, by way of example with reference to the drawings.
- Referring now to
FIGS. 1 and 2 .FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an aircraft 2 that may incorporate embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of ram air turbine (RAT)assembly 40 that may incorporate embodiments of the present disclosure. Aircraft 2 includes a fuselage 4 extending from anose portion 6 to a tail portion 8 through abody portion 10.Body portion 10 houses anaircraft cabin 14 that includes acrew compartment 15 and a passenger compartment 16.Body portion 10 supports afirst wing 17 and asecond wing 18.First wing 17 extends from afirst root portion 20 to afirst tip portion 21 through afirst airfoil portion 23.First airfoil portion 23 includes aleading edge 25 and a trailingedge 26.Second wing 18 extends from a second root portion (not shown) to asecond tip portion 31 through asecond airfoil portion 33.Second airfoil portion 33 includes aleading edge 35 and a trailingedge 36. Tail portion 8 includes astabilizer 38. - Aircraft 2 includes a ram air turbine (RAT)
assembly 40 mounted within fuselage 4 ornose portion 6. When additional electrical and/or hydraulic power is required, acompartment door 54 in the fuselage 4 will open and anactuator 50 will actuate to deploy theRAT assembly 40 into the freestream air. As shown inFIG. 2 , theRAT assembly 40 may include aturbine assembly 42, agearbox assembly 44, ashaft assembly 48, agenerator 46, and theactuator 50. As theturbine assembly 42 rotates, the rotational torque is transferred from theturbine assembly 42, through thegearbox assembly 44 to a driveshaft (not shown) in thestrut assembly 48, and then to thegenerator 46. Thegenerator 46 may be an electrical generator, hydraulic pump, or both an electrical generator and a hydraulic pump. - Referring now to
FIGS. 3 and 4 .FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional side view of anactuator 50 for use in theRAT assembly 40 ofFIG. 2 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG. 4 shows an enlarged cross-sectional top view of theactuator 50 ofFIG. 3 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, theactuator 50 includes atoggle mechanism 100,solenoids 60 and arod end 52. Thetoggle mechanism 100 may include alock piston 110, alink 120, aclevis 200, across rod 300 and abracket 140. Thetoggle mechanism 100 operates as an over center mechanism. Thesolenoids 60 pull on thecross rod 300 to move thetoggle mechanism 100 past its over-center position. Once thetoggle mechanism 100 moves past its over-center position, thelink 120 shifts and subsequently allows thelock piston 110 to translate in direction X. Thelock piston 110 had been originally preloaded to translate in direction X but was previously prevented from translating by thelink 120. The motion of thelock piston 110 activates theactuator 50, and thus as thelock piston 110 completes its motion, theactuator 50 begins translating therod end 52 in direction X. The motion of the rod end will deploy and/or retract the RAT (e.g.RAT assembly 40 as shown inFIG. 2 ). The force generated by thesolenoids 60 imparts a large bending force on thecross rod 300. Further, the preload on thelock piston 110 also imparts a large bending force on thecross rod 300. These forces can bend thecross rod 300 if it is not sufficiently thick. - Referring now to
FIGS. 5 and 7 .FIG. 5 shows a schematic illustration of atoggle mechanism 100 for use in theactuator 50 ofFIG. 3 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG. 7 shows a schematic illustration of across rod 300 for use in thetoggle mechanism 100 ofFIG. 5 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Thetoggle mechanism 100 includes aclevis 200 and across rod 300 operably connected to theclevis 200. Thecross rod 300 having afirst section 310, asecond section 320, and amidsection 330 between thefirst section 310 and thesecond section 320. Thefirst section 310 has a first diameter D1, thesecond section 320 has a second diameter D2, and themidsection 330 has a third diameter D3. Further, themidsection 330 includes aflange 340. Theflange 340 may be formed via machining themidsection 330 of thecross rod 300. Alternatively, theflange 340 may rigidly connected to themidsection 330. In an embodiment, theflange 340 may be rigidly connected to the midsection by a weld at ajuncture 370. As shown, theflange 340 also includes a throughhole 350. Theflange 340 and the throughhole 350 may be formed in a variety of different manors including but not limited to molding, machining and drilling. Themidsection 330 also includes aclearance notch 360. Theclearance notch 360 allows thecross rod 300 to avoid hitting thelink 120 whenlock piston 110 translates. Thelock piston 110 may be operably connected to theclevis 200 via thelink 120. Thelock piston 110 may be operably connected to thelink 120 via apin 182. - The
clevis 200 includes afirst side 200 a, asecond side 200 b parallel to thefirst side 200 a, thesecond side 200 b rigidly connected to thefirst side 200 a via at least one brace (e.g. 200 c & 200 d ofFIG. 10 ) perpendicular to thefirst side 200 a and thesecond side 200 b. Theclevis 200 also includes a first set of parallel pivot holes 210. Afirst hole 210 a of the first set of parallel pivot holes 210 being located in thefirst side 200 a and asecond hole 210 b of the first set of parallel pivot holes 210 being located in thesecond side 200 b. In an embodiment, thesecond hole 210 b may be a blind hole and the blind hole opens towards thefirst side 200 a. Theclevis 200 also includes a second set of parallel pivot holes 220. Afirst hole 220 a of the second set of parallel pivot holes 220 being located in thefirst side 200 a and asecond hole 220 b of the second set of parallel pivot holes 220 being located in thesecond side 200 b. Theclevis 200 also includes a set of parallel throughholes 230. Afirst hole 230 a of the set of parallel throughholes 230 being located in thefirst side 200 a and asecond hole 230 b of the set of parallel throughholes 230 being located in thesecond side 200 b. Theclevis 200 also includes a helicoilblind hole 240. The helicoil blind 240 hole being located in thefirst side 200 a and extending into the brace 200 d (seeFIG. 10 ). The first set of parallel pivot holes 210, the second set of parallel pivot holes 220, the set of parallel throughholes 230, and the helicoilblind hole 240 may be formed in a variety of different manors including but not limited to molding, machining and drilling. - The
toggle mechanism 100 may also include abracket 140 operably connected to theclevis 200 at the second set of parallel pivot holes 220 via abiasing mechanism 130. Thebiasing mechanism 130 may include apin 186. In an embodiment, thebiasing mechanism 130 may be a spring. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
toggle mechanism 100 also includes acap screw 160 located in the throughhole 350. Thecap screw 160 secures thecross rod 300 to the set of parallel throughholes 230 of theclevis 200. Thecap screw 160 secures thecross rod 300 to theclevis 200 via the helicoilblind hole 240. Thecap screw 160 prevents thecross rod 300 from rotating in theclevis 200. If thecross rod 300 had bent due to heavy loads, and then rotated in theclevis 200, the over center position may change for variouscross rod 300 rotational positions. In order to prevent the cross rod from bending, various changes were incorporated into thecross rod 300 inFIG. 7 versus alternate cross-rod designs. - Referring now to also
FIGS. 6 and 8 , in addition toFIGS. 5 and 7 .FIG. 6 shows a schematic illustration of analternate toggle mechanism 102 capable of being using in theactuator 50 ofFIG. 3 .FIG. 8 shows a schematic illustration of analternate cross rod 302 for use in thealternate toggle mechanism 102 ofFIG. 6 . In comparingcross rod 300 inFIG. 7 to thealternate cross rod 302 inFIG. 8 , it may be seen that the diameter (D1, D2, and D3) ofcross rod 300 is greater than the diameter D4 of thealternate cross rod 302. Having a larger diameter allowscross rod 300 to withstand larger bending forces. Further, the third diameter D3 may be larger than at least one of the first diameter D1 and the second diameter D2. Having a larger diameter in the middle allows thecross rod 300 to be stronger where it is needed most. In contrast, thealternate cross rod 302 includes ascallop 390 near the center of thealternate cross rod 302, which results in a smaller diameter D5. The smaller diameter D5 creates a weak point near the center of thealternate cross rod 302, where the bending forces are often elevated. - Further difference in the
cross rod 300 over thealternate cross rod 302 could be seen with the addition of theflange 340 on thecross rod 300. Theflange 340 allows the pivot pin 184 connecting thelink 120 to theclevis 200 to remain in the first set of parallel pivot holes 210 of theclevis 200. As mentioned above, thesecond hole 210 b may be a blind hole and the blind hole opens towards thefirst side 200 a. The pivot pin 184 may be pressed into the blindsecond hole 210 b of the first set of parallel pivot holes 210 and then theflange 340 will cover up the pivot pin 184 on thefirst hole 210 a. As seen inFIG. 6 , thealternate toggle mechanism 102 required a separate piece, called aretainer 188, to keep the pivot pin 184 in its place. - Referring now to
FIGS. 9 and 10 .FIG. 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional illustration of across rod 300 andclevis 200 assembly for use in thetoggle mechanism 100 ofFIG. 5 , according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG. 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional illustration of analternate cross rod 302 andalternate clevis 202 assembly for use in thealternate toggle mechanism 102 ofFIG. 6 . In order to reduce movement in direction Y, thecross rod 300 is secured to theclevis 200 via thecap screw 160, such that theflange 340 is abutting theclevis 200, as shown. Thecap screw 160 is located in the throughhole 350 of theflange 340 and screws into theclevis 200 at the helicoilblind hole 240. As shown inFIG. 10 , the thickness of thealternate cross rod 302 is reduced at thescallop 390, in order to accommodate aset screw 190, which reduces movement in direction Y. Thecap screw 160, theflange 340 and the helicoilblind hole 240 inFIG. 9 eliminates the need to reduce the thickness of thecross rod 200 in themidsection 330, unlike thealternate cross rod 302. Advantageously, a thicker diameter at themidsection 330 helps make thecross rod 300 stronger and more resistant to bending and/or breaking than thealternate cross rod 302. Also advantageously, as mentioned above, theflange 340 of thecross rod 300 eliminates the need for theretainer 188, which was required by thealternate cross rod 302 andalternate clevis 202 assembly ofFIG. 10 . The elimination of theretainer 188 and theset screw 190 reduces part count and simplifies assembly. - While the present disclosure has been described in detail in connection with only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the present disclosure is not limited to such disclosed embodiments. Rather, the present disclosure can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions, combinations, sub-combinations, or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are commensurate with the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, while various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, it is to be understood that aspects of the present disclosure may include only some of the described embodiments. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not to be seen as limited by the foregoing description, but is only limited by the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (18)
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/068,151 US10385784B2 (en) | 2016-03-11 | 2016-03-11 | Clevis link for toggle mechanism of ram air turbine actuator |
FR1751966A FR3048676B1 (en) | 2016-03-11 | 2017-03-10 | SCREED CONNECTION FOR BACKUP WIND TURBINE ACTUATOR TOGGLE MECHANISM |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
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US15/068,151 US10385784B2 (en) | 2016-03-11 | 2016-03-11 | Clevis link for toggle mechanism of ram air turbine actuator |
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US20170260906A1 true US20170260906A1 (en) | 2017-09-14 |
US10385784B2 US10385784B2 (en) | 2019-08-20 |
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US15/068,151 Active 2038-06-21 US10385784B2 (en) | 2016-03-11 | 2016-03-11 | Clevis link for toggle mechanism of ram air turbine actuator |
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FR (1) | FR3048676B1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20170259934A1 (en) * | 2016-03-11 | 2017-09-14 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Cross rod for toggle mechanism of ram air turbine actuator |
US10370115B2 (en) * | 2017-01-14 | 2019-08-06 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Release mechanism |
EP3741681A1 (en) | 2019-05-24 | 2020-11-25 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Locking and unlocking mechanism |
Family Cites Families (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4303213A (en) * | 1979-02-21 | 1981-12-01 | The Boeing Company | Tow plate |
FR2516609A1 (en) * | 1981-11-19 | 1983-05-20 | Snecma | DEVICE FOR FIXING TWO PARTS OF REVOLUTION IN MATERIALS HAVING DIFFERENT EXPANSION COEFFICIENTS |
US4676458A (en) * | 1984-12-24 | 1987-06-30 | Sundstrand Corporation | Deployment mechanism for a ram air turbine |
US4742976A (en) * | 1985-06-10 | 1988-05-10 | Sundstrand Corporation | Ram air turbine and deployment mechanism |
US4717095A (en) * | 1985-06-10 | 1988-01-05 | Sundstrand Corporation | Ram air turbine indexing mechanism |
US8602736B2 (en) * | 2010-03-22 | 2013-12-10 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Stow abort mechanism for a ram air turbine |
US8640563B2 (en) * | 2011-05-25 | 2014-02-04 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Ram air turbine deployment actuator |
US8920062B2 (en) * | 2011-09-26 | 2014-12-30 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Ejection jack release mechanism |
US9365295B2 (en) * | 2012-06-06 | 2016-06-14 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Electromechanical actuator and latch assembly for ram air turbine |
-
2016
- 2016-03-11 US US15/068,151 patent/US10385784B2/en active Active
-
2017
- 2017-03-10 FR FR1751966A patent/FR3048676B1/en active Active
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20170259934A1 (en) * | 2016-03-11 | 2017-09-14 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Cross rod for toggle mechanism of ram air turbine actuator |
US10829240B2 (en) * | 2016-03-11 | 2020-11-10 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Cross rod for toggle mechanism of ram air turbine actuator |
US10370115B2 (en) * | 2017-01-14 | 2019-08-06 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Release mechanism |
EP3741681A1 (en) | 2019-05-24 | 2020-11-25 | Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation | Locking and unlocking mechanism |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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FR3048676A1 (en) | 2017-09-15 |
US10385784B2 (en) | 2019-08-20 |
FR3048676B1 (en) | 2021-11-05 |
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